Brain Parasite Killed Elmwood Park Zoo Red Panda

NORRISTOWN, PA - After weeks of testing and research, the cause of death for a popular new and apparently healthy red panda at the Elmwood Park Zoo has been determined.

Clinger’s sudden November 29 death was caused by meningo-encephalitis, which in turn was likely caused by a brain parasite, the Zoo said on their Facebook page Friday.

The initial necropsy on Clinger could not determine a cause of death.

Clinger’s brothers, Slash and Shredder, also at Elmwood, are now receiving preventative treatments.

>>Red Panda Dies Mysteriously At Elmwood Park Zoo

“Their health will continue to be closely monitored,” the Zoo said.

It turns out that Clinger’s mother, Shama, also died from encephalitis brought on by a parasite.

Due to this, her three children received preventative treatment at birth, but detection of the parasite is extremely difficult, the Zoo said. Only a brain biopsy, a complex procedure, would’ve revealed Clinger’s condition.

“Clinger’s sudden death was definitely a shock, especially because he didn’t show any clinical signs,” the Zoo said. “Humans can tell you they’re feeling unwell; often times animals will go about their business even if things aren’t well internally.”

The Zoo added that they’ve received a wide outpouring of support since the death of one of their most beloved furry creatures.

Clinger was only 18 months old when he passed.

Red pandas are native to the cool bamboo forests of China and the foothills of the Himalayas, the zoo said.